Why are members of parliament given money on top of their salary?

Members of parliament receive a salary for undertaking their role representing the people of their electorate, state or territory, making laws for Australia and scrutinising the work of the government. They also receive work expenses to assist them undertake their role.

These work expenses – entitlements – include travel, accommodation, office facilities and staff salaries. These payments help senators and members of the House of Representatives meet people in their electorate, state or territory, travel to Parliament House, and inform themselves about bills and issues debated in Parliament.

The Remuneration Tribunal and a number of Acts of Parliament determine what work expenses members and senators can claim. There are checks on these work expenses and the Independent Parliamentary Expenses Authority publishes regular parliamentarians’ expenditure reports.